South Africa Joins Brazil, Mexico, France, Denmark, Saudi Arabia, China, UK, and More as Canada Revises Travel Advisory Over Security and Crime Threats

Friday, July 25, 2025

Canada has revised its travel advisory, warning citizens of the escalated security risk, after warnings about travel to South Africa have been placed on a list of increased warnings which include the nations of France, Brazil, Mexico, France, Denmark, Saudi Arabia, China, UK, and others. The announcement is made as the country is witnessing rising of violent crimes, armed robberies and almost serially occurring power cuts, which add to the prevailing crime scenes. Canada has also warned travellers to be on high guard when visiting South Africa and similar high-risk countries, due to growing political instability, economic hardship and threats from organised crime.

Canada’s travel advisory system serves as an essential resource for its citizens, offering timely, reliable information regarding potential safety risks when traveling abroad. The government regularly updates its travel advisories based on a variety of factors, including health risks, political instability, natural disasters, and, most notably, the threat of crime and violence. Recently, Canada has updated its advisory to include South Africa, joining a growing list of countries that now fall under heightened scrutiny due to increased safety concerns.

South Africa’s inclusion in this advisory marks a significant shift, as the country faces a combination of ongoing security challenges that have escalated in recent years. This update adds South Africa to a list that already includes countries like France, Brazil, Mexico, Denmark, Saudi Arabia, China, the UK, and several others. In this article, we explore the reasons behind this updated advisory and what it means for travelers heading to South Africa and other high-risk destinations.

South Africa: A Nation in Crisis

South Africa is a country known for its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history. However, the nation has long struggled with issues related to violent crime, economic inequality, and political instability. In recent years, these problems have been exacerbated by a combination of factors, leading to a sharp rise in crime rates.

While crime has always been a significant concern in South Africa, recent developments have escalated the threat to both locals and tourists alike. The country continues to face serious challenges in combatting organized crime, gang violence, and armed robberies. High-profile incidents of kidnapping and violence, particularly in major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, have raised concerns about the safety of travelers.

A key element contributing to the rising crime rate is the country’s struggling economy, which has left many citizens without access to basic resources. This situation has bred an environment where crime is increasingly seen as an economic necessity by some individuals. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are common, but incidents of carjackings, home burglaries, and violent robberies have become more frequent, especially in high-tourism areas.

The Impact of Power Shortages and Load Shedding

One of the most pressing issues South Africa is facing today is its chronic power shortage, also known as load shedding. This nationwide issue has plagued the country for years and shows no sign of abating. Load shedding refers to the rolling blackouts that occur due to the inability of the national power grid to meet demand. While this situation is primarily a result of outdated infrastructure and inadequate energy production, its consequences are far-reaching, affecting every aspect of daily life.

The blackouts are particularly concerning for international travelers who are unfamiliar with the intricacies of navigating a country without reliable electricity. In addition to disrupting basic services like telecommunications and security systems, these power outages increase the vulnerability of individuals in both urban and rural areas. Without power, security systems are compromised, stores and banks are unable to operate, and hospitals and other critical facilities are left without backup energy sources. As a result, incidents of crime tend to surge during these power outages, as criminals take advantage of the chaos to target vulnerable individuals.

Tourists visiting South Africa are encouraged to be especially vigilant during these times, as blackouts can lead to widespread disarray, including unlit streets, stalled vehicles, and dark hotels. The threat of crime escalates under these circumstances, making it vital for travelers to keep a close eye on their personal belongings and avoid areas with little to no visibility.

What Canada’s Updated Travel Advisory Means for Travelers

Canada’s updated travel advisory reflects a growing concern for the safety and well-being of its citizens traveling abroad. The advisory urges travelers to exercise a higher degree of caution when visiting South Africa due to the heightened risk of crime, particularly in urban centers and popular tourist destinations. This advisory is in line with those for other countries facing similar security challenges, including France, Brazil, Mexico, and several other nations where the threat of terrorism and violent crime is on the rise.

Canada’s decision to issue an updated advisory for South Africa underscores the importance of remaining vigilant and prepared when traveling to regions that may be experiencing instability. The advisory suggests that travelers take certain precautions before and during their stay in South Africa. These include securing accommodations in well-lit areas, avoiding traveling alone at night, and being aware of their surroundings at all times.

Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs also emphasizes the importance of maintaining an emergency kit with flashlights, power banks, and essential supplies, as blackouts can leave travelers stranded in inconvenient situations. Travelers are advised to monitor local media for updates on blackouts, protests, and other events that could disrupt daily life, as well as to stay in contact with local authorities and follow their instructions at all times.

Other Countries on the Updated List

While South Africa has garnered significant attention in this updated advisory, it is not the only country on the list facing serious security risks. Other nations, including France, Brazil, Mexico, Denmark, Saudi Arabia, China, and the UK, have also been flagged for similar concerns.

France has been grappling with the elevated threat of terrorism, especially in major urban centers like Paris. Although France has deployed extensive counterterrorism measures, recent attacks have highlighted the vulnerability of public spaces. The Canadian advisory urges travelers to remain cautious in crowded areas, such as tourist attractions, restaurants, and transportation hubs, where the risk of an attack remains high.

Brazil, similarly, faces high crime rates, particularly in urban areas like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. While tourists flock to Brazil for its vibrant culture and famous landmarks, they must remain aware of their surroundings and avoid high-crime zones, especially after dark. The rise of organized crime and gang violence, particularly near the borders, continues to be a major concern for travelers.

Mexico has long been known for its issues with violent crime, including drug-related violence and kidnappings. Certain areas of the country, such as Chihuahua and Guerrero, are particularly dangerous, and the Canadian advisory urges travelers to avoid these regions whenever possible. Even in major tourist destinations, travelers must remain cautious and avoid walking alone or flaunting expensive items.

Denmark has faced its own set of challenges, with rising concerns over terrorism in Europe. Although Denmark is generally considered a safe destination, the heightened threat of attacks on public spaces has made vigilance necessary. The advisory suggests staying alert in public places and avoiding demonstrations or large gatherings where the risk of violence is elevated.

Saudi Arabia has long been a country of concern for travelers due to its ongoing regional tensions and the threat of terrorist attacks. The Canadian advisory recommends avoiding non-essential travel to areas near the borders with Yemen and Iraq, where the risk of missile and drone attacks remains high.

China, despite its significant economic power, poses risks to travelers due to arbitrary law enforcement, including the possibility of exit bans and severe punishment for violations. Canada has warned travelers to exercise extreme caution when navigating the legal and political landscape in China, where dual citizens may face increased scrutiny and legal challenges.

Finally, the United Kingdom and other European nations remain under heightened scrutiny due to the persistent threat of terrorism, with large public events and crowded areas considered prime targets. Canada’s advisory underscores the need for travelers to be cautious in high-traffic areas like airports and tourist attractions.

Canada’s updated travel advisory highlights the complexity of global travel in today’s world, where political instability, economic challenges, and rising crime rates can pose significant risks to travelers. While South Africa, along with other countries like France, Brazil, Mexico, and Denmark, is now under heightened caution, travelers must stay informed, prepared, and vigilant when journeying to any high-risk destination.

The advisory serves as a reminder that the safety of Canadian travelers remains a top priority, and it encourages individuals to take proactive steps to mitigate potential risks. Whether traveling to South Africa or other countries listed in the updated advisory, travelers should be mindful of their surroundings, plan ahead, and monitor local conditions to ensure their safety.

By following the advice of local authorities, staying in well-trafficked areas, and preparing for potential emergencies like power outages and political unrest, travelers can minimize their exposure to risks and enjoy their journeys with greater peace of mind.

Canada has issued a new travel advisory, listing South Africa amongst a number of high-risk countries such as France, Brazil and Mexico, saying the crime rate is increasing, and citing security risks and power outages. Increased caution is advised to travel in these areas.

As the world continues to evolve, so too must our approach to travel, with a focus on staying safe and informed in an increasingly unpredictable global landscape.